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Throughout the past few decades, many homeowners have chosen granite for their new kitchen countertops, bathroom vanity tops, backsplashes and more. However, quartz is becoming quite the popular choice in today’s market. While granite is still a common choice for the home, many are now opting for quartz surfaces to complete their home improvement projects. This guide will focus on the cost of both granite and quartz and how the two compare.

What is Granite?

Granite is a beautiful natural stone that is one of the most popular materials used for stone countertops. It can also be used for a multitude of other home surfaces. Granite is beloved by homeowners not only because of its beauty, but its durability and numerous other positive qualities. Granite countertops can be found in a variety of colors and veining patterns and are low maintenance. The surfaces are heat resistant, stain resistant and scratch resistant, making the stone an ideal fit for any new countertop.

What is Quartz?

Quartz is an engineered stone that is made by a combination of roughly 90 percent ground natural quartz mineral and 10 percent polyresin. These percentages can vary slightly based on specific brands. Quartz countertops have risen in popularity due to their gorgeous appearance, wide variety of styles to choose from and maintenance benefits. The surfaces are very durable and require little care. Because the surfaces are engineered, quartz is non-porous, meaning it will not require the sealing that natural stone does.

How Much Does Granite Cost?

Granite generally costs between $35 to $75 per square foot. This number will depend on a variety of factors, including what type of granite you choose, how much of it you need and any cutouts or angles your project requires. Rare granite will be priced in the high-end of the range, while common types of the stone are less expensive.

How Much Does Quartz Cost?

Despite being engineered stone, you cannot expect to pay less for quartz. These surfaces are in high demand due to the benefits mentioned above. Quartz typically costs between $50 to $120 per square foot depending on several different factors. The factors that impact the cost of granite, such as cutouts and angles, will also impact the cost of quartz.

Average Costs: Granite vs. Quartz

Granite

Between $35 to $75 per square foot

Quartz

Between $50 to $120 per square foot

Granite vs. Quartz: Additional Factors

Price will not be the only factor that determines whether you complete your home remodeling project using granite or quartz. Because countertops and other home surfaces are such a significant addition, you will want to decide on a material you will enjoy not only now, but in the future. Below are some factors you will want to evaluate with both options.

Granite

Appearance

Granite is one of the best countertop materials on the market if you are looking for a surface that is pleasing to the eye. There are hundreds of colors and styles to choose from, so you will not be limited when it comes to appearance.

Durability

There are few materials that can rival the durability of a granite slab. Granite will be able to withstand the wear and tear it will face in high-traffic areas like the kitchen. That said, you should still exercise caution in the interest of keeping granite countertops and other surfaces in great shape. For example, while a granite countertop will not sustain damages from hot pots or pans placed on the surface, it is still a good idea to use trivets or hot pads when setting down hot items.

Maintenance

Granite is one of the easiest materials to maintain. Caring for granite will involve keeping up on cleaning, sealing and polishing (if the surface becomes dull). This should not cause concern, as none of these processes require significant effort. There are many cleaners and sealant products you can choose from with granite. These cleaners and sealers are easy to use and can help keep your granite in terrific condition.

Installation

Granite is a very heavy material, meaning that installing the stone is not a DIY job. You will need to hire professional installers to put the surfaces in your home.

Quartz

Appearance

Much like granite, you will not be limited in color or style selections with quartz. Because it is engineered, customization of these surfaces is relatively easy.

Durability

Quartz is one of the most durable materials you can have in your home. While few materials rival the durability of granite, quartz is one of them. Your quartz surfaces will stay in great shape for years with proper care. One major downfall is heat resistance, however. You will have to be careful around quartz countertops and other surfaces with heat, as exposure to high levels of heat can melt the resin and cause burn marks.

Maintenance

Quartz is easy to clean and does not require sealing. Its low maintenance qualities help make it such a popular choice on the market.

Installation

You will also need to hire professionals to install your quartz countertop or other surfaces. The material is very heavy and should not be handled by any homeowner.

Whether it is a kitchen remodel, bathroom remodel or any other home improvement project, granite and quartz are two of the top choices on the market. In general, quartz is the more expensive material, although some overlap in pricing exists. This guide will help you get a better idea of cost and other factors you should consider before purchasing granite or quartz for your home.

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